Retreat benefits from grouse shoot

Glenesk Retreat and Museum has received a generous donation of over £20,000 from three local sporting estates.

Millden, Gannochy and Dalhousie Estates organised a grouse shooting event to help raise the funds for the much-loved community centre.

Millden and Gannochy Estates both donated the value of a let shooting day to the Glenesk Trust.

The Millden shoot took place last week when the shooting party gathered at the Retreat, returning there for tea at the end of an excellent day on the moor despite the foggy conditions.

Originally built by a sea captain as a retreat from the rigours of a sailor’s life, the Retreat is now the focal point of glen community life and is home to a unique and renowned collection of historic artefacts, all gathered from within Glen Esk.

There is a gift shop, art gallery and popular licensed restaurant and tearoom as well as conference facilities, a community room and offices for use by local groups and businesses. There is an annual programme of cultural and educational events and the funding from the estates will help to support and develop this further.

The museum collection was started in the 1950s by Glenesk schoolteacher Greta Michie and today it provides a fascinating insight into the domestic and social life of those who have lived and worked in the glen over the decades.

The building, provided by Dalhousie Estates and now owned by the Glenesk Trust, was rebuilt in 2005 with local donations and substantial grants from the heritage Lottery Fund and the European Rural Development Fund.

Councillor Bob Myles, who is also chair of the Glenesk Trust , said: “On behalf of the Glenesk Trust and the people of the glen I would like to say how much we appreciate the generous donation from the three estates in the glen and thank them very much for their support.

“We need continued support for our unique museum, tea room and community facility we have at the retreat for it to remain viable and I would urge anyone who has not yet visited the retreat to come and see for themselves snapshots of rural life in the glen both past and present. You will get a warm traditional welcome and can sample some of the best of local produce.”

Richard Cooke, factor for Dalhousie Estates, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the Glenesk Retreat which is at the heart of the Glen community where most of the local employment and many of the households are connected with the grouse moors.

“It is a vital resource run by the Trust for the people of the Glen and in itself provides a number of seasonal jobs.

“The three estates are pleased to be able to organise events which reflect the main land use and can contribute towards the ongoing costs of this irreplaceable community asset.

“We hope that the money raised will go some way towards supporting the Retreat in future months and years and ensure that this excellent facility remains available for everyone who visits the Angus area to enjoy.”